Isle Of Wight Athlete Helps GB Women’s Flag Football Team Reach Tournament Semi-Finals

An Isle of Wight athlete supported by Wightlink has helped the GB Women’s Flag Football Team reach the semi-finals of the Olympic division at the world’s largest flag football tournament.

Lottie Ladler, who is part of Wightlink's Talented Athlete scheme, travelled to the United States with the squad for an intensive programme of training and competition.

The tour began with a training camp at Warner University in Florida, followed by friendly matches against the university team and China’s national side, before the team competed in the Tampa World Championship, which attracts sides from across the globe.

Team GB delivered its strongest performance yet in the Olympic division, progressing to the semi-finals before being knocked out by a well-established Canadian team.

The tournament was ultimately won by the USA.

The Florida trip marks the start of a pivotal year for the GB Women’s Flag Football Team, with preparations now underway for the World Championships in Germany later this year.

Results at the event will contribute crucial ranking points towards qualification for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, where only the world’s top six teams will secure a place.

Reflecting on the experience, Lottie said the opportunity had been invaluable ahead of a demanding season.

“It was an amazing experience to play in Florida,” she said.

“The level of competition made it a great opportunity for the team. Starting our World Championship year like this allows us to learn and grow before perfecting our game ready for August. I’d like to say thank you to Wightlink for helping me travel to trips like this.”

Wightlink supports Lottie’s cross-Solent travel as part of its wider commitment to backing talented Island athletes through the Talented Athlete scheme.

Sam Woodman, Partnerships Marketing Manager at Wightlink, said it was fantastic to see Lottie representing Great Britain on such a big stage, adding that the company is proud to help Island athletes access opportunities beyond the Isle of Wight.

The GB Women’s Flag Football Team will now turn its focus to preparations for the World Championships later this year as it continues its push for Olympic qualification.